In conjunction with with the running of the 94th Indianapolis 500® last month, Honda launched two new campaigns. The two commercials, both developed by RPA of Santa Monica, focus on Honda’s involvement and commitment to racing.

The first ad, “Where it Starts”, focuses on the fact that Honda is the single engine supplier to IZOD IndyCar® Series. The spot spans from a moment in the race for the Honda IndyCar® engine inside Dario Franchitti’s car all the way back to its conception at Honda Performance Development. The commercial will air during IndyCar® races on ABC and Versus.

The second spot, “Backseat Driver”, features internationally celebrated racing champion Mario Andretti. The video moves from Mario driving a passenger in a two-seater IndyCar® to an Accord Coupe where he is the passenger. The objective of the spot is to connect Honda’s innovation, technology and racing spirit with the same available in passenger cars Honda Accord and Civic coupes for consumers.

“Backseat Driver” encourages viewers to visit www.shophonda.com and enter a contest to win a ride with Mario Andretti. The winner of the sweepstakes gets to ride in a two-seater for the parade laps and remain on the course for the start of the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma. The IZOD IndyCar® two-seater will be driven by Mario Andretti at the Indy® Grand Prix of Sonoma at Infineon Raceway on August 22, 2010.